Serj Tankian
Serj Tankian
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Serj Tankian is a renowned Armenian-American musician, singer, songwriter, poet, and activist. He is best known as the lead vocalist of the progressive rock band System of a Down.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on August 21, 1967, in Beirut, Lebanon, Serj Tankian's life has been marked by a passion for music that has spanned decades.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Tankian is an Armenian-American musician and activist. He is also a poet and songwriter.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Lebanon during the tumultuous years of the country's civil war, Tankian was exposed to a rich cultural heritage that would later shape his music. His family relocated to Los Angeles when he was just 10 years old, where he began exploring his musical talents. He attended California State University, Northridge, studying electrical engineering and computer science, but his true passion lay in the arts.
Major Accomplishments
Tankian's breakthrough came with System of a Down, which he co-founded in 1994 alongside Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, and John Dolmayan. The band quickly gained international recognition for their unique blend of punk rock, heavy metal, and Armenian folk music. Tankian's powerful vocals and poignant lyrics captured the hearts of fans worldwide.
Notable Works or Actions
Tankian has released several solo albums, including "Elect the Dead" in 2007, which debuted at No. 4 on the US Billboard 200 chart. He has also worked as a composer for various projects, including the soundtrack for the documentary film "Taxi to the Dark Side."
Impact and Legacy
Tankian's music is not only known for its technical complexity but also for its socially conscious themes. His activism spans issues such as Armenian Genocide recognition, nuclear disarmament, and Middle East peace efforts. Through his art and public advocacy, Tankian has inspired a new generation of musicians and activists.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Serj Tankian's music is often cited for its thought-provoking lyrics and energetic performances. His activism on various social issues has made him a respected figure in the global community. As a poet, songwriter, and musician, he continues to inspire fans worldwide with his creative vision.
Tankian's contributions to System of a Down have been widely praised, with hits like "Chop Suey!" and "B.Y.O.B." solidifying their place in rock music history. His solo work has also garnered critical acclaim, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Throughout his career, Tankian has received numerous accolades for his contributions to the music world. He has been nominated for two Grammy Awards and has won several other awards for his music and activism.
In conclusion, Serj Tankian's unique blend of artistic talent and social consciousness has cemented his place in the global community as a respected musician and activist.
Quotes by Serj Tankian
Serj Tankian's insights on:
I think every artist should follow their vision; their hearts is what they need to reveal, not something that society is looking out for. That said though, I think also artists have, continuously good artists, have been good for their times.
In terms of political things, I think it’s important to be more direct in terms of political statements. I think in terms of philosophical and things that you plant things and see them grow lyrically or musically, it’s okay to be subtle.
I’ve always worked on all different types of music, some with specific project goals and deadlines and some not. Sometimes I would write a piece of music that is almost like a film score or weird electro pieces, wherever the muse took me, and I still do that.
It’s probably a combination of personal and non-personal matters that have led us to where we are musically.
Touring and putting out records is fun and cool, but I’ve been doing it for a long time.
With most of the songs and music that I’ve composed, irrespective of the myriad videos made, I was always careful not to overly define the experience, leaving room for people to internalize things for themselves, making their experience more integral.
A lot of pop music is based on trying to make people remember it so that they’ll buy it. To me, it was not about that.
I think that the memory of Armenia’s genocide opened my eyes at an early age to the existence of political cynicism.
In the last few years I’ve been listening to jazz more than anything else. I listen to a lot of world music and experimental here and there.